Device and method for treatment of sinusitis

ABSTRACT

A method for treating a natural drainage passageway in a subject includes forming a cannulated artificial passageway into a subject&#39;s sinus cavity through the canine fossa region with a piercing member, the piercing member containing a hollow cannula thereon, the cannula comprising an elongate flexible member having a lumen passing therethrough. The piercing member is removed so as to leave the cannula in place. A balloon dilation catheter is then advanced within the lumen of the cannula so as to place the dilation balloon at least partially across the natural drainage passage in the sinus cavity. The dilation balloon is dilated so as to at least partially expand the natural drainage passageway.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/379,691 filed on Apr. 21, 2006, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. ______. Priority is claimed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 120 and all other applicable statutes. U.S. application Ser. No. 11/379,691 is incorporated by reference as if set forth fully herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention generally relates to devices and methods for the treatment or amelioration of sinusitis.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Sinusitis is a condition affecting over 35 million Americans, and similarly large populations in the rest of the developed world. Sinusitis occurs when one or more of the four paired sinus cavities (i.e., maxillary, ethmoid, frontal, sphenoid) becomes obstructed. These paired cavities are located in the skull behind the face, as is depicted in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3A. Normally the sinus cavities, each of which are lined by mucosa, produce mucous which is then moved by beating cilia from the sinus cavity out to the nasal cavity and down the throat. The combined sinuses produce approximately one liter of mucous daily, so the effective transport of this mucous is important to sinus health.

Each sinus cavity has an opening into the nasal passage called an ostium. When the mucosa of one or more of the ostia or regions near the ostia become inflamed, the egress of mucous is interrupted, setting the stage for an infection of the sinus cavity, i.e., sinusitis. Infections of the maxillary and/or ethmoid sinuses make up the vast majority of cases of sinusitis, with far fewer cases involving the sphenoids and frontals.

Though many instances of sinusitis may be treatable with antibiotics, in some cases sinusitis persists for months, a condition called chronic sinusitis. Some patients are also prone to multiple episodes of sinusitis in a given period of time, a condition called recurrent sinusitis.

Currently, patients experiencing chronic sinusitis are eligible to have a surgical procedure called functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). In this procedure, which almost always done in an operating room setting with the patient under general anesthesia, surgical cutting instruments are guided with an endoscopic visualization tool to the various sinus ostia and adjacent regions. Inflamed mucosa and underlying bony tissue are cut away in an effort to widen the outlet of the sinuses of interest. Once opened, the infected sinuses are able to drain and return to a relatively normal state.

While this procedure is generally effective, it is a relatively invasive procedure to the nasal cavity and sinuses. There can be significant post-operative pain for the patient, and sometimes there are bleeding complications that require packing to be placed in the nasal cavity. Subsequent removal of this packing can be quite painful. Also, since the nasal and sinus tissue are significantly traumatized, it may take several days to weeks to know whether the surgery was successful. This is especially true if various healing agents such as MeroGel® (Medtronic/Xomed) were placed at the surgical site, as these often block the sinus drainage until they are flushed away or degrade away after several days.

Additionally, in certain patients, the ostial regions of the surgically-treated sinuses can become re-obstructed with excess growth of scar tissue as a result of the tissue trauma. When the advantages and disadvantages of the surgery are considered for a patient with sinusitis, there are many patients in whom the surgery may not be appropriate. For example, their condition may not be considered “chronic enough” or extensive enough to warrant FESS surgery. In other situations, the patient may be fearful of the pain or other aspects of having FESS performed. Alternatively, the FESS procedure may be too costly for a particular patient.

For these and other reasons, there is a clear need for better methods and devices for the treatment of sinusitis.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect of the invention, a method for treating a natural drainage passageway in a subject includes forming a cannulated artificial passageway into a subject's sinus cavity through the canine fossa region with a piercing member, the piercing member containing a hollow cannula thereon, the cannula comprising an elongate flexible member having a lumen passing therethrough. The piercing member is removed so as to leave the cannula in place. A balloon dilation catheter is then advanced within the lumen of the cannula so as to place the dilation balloon at least partially across the natural drainage passage in the sinus cavity. The dilation balloon is dilated so as to at least partially expand the natural drainage passageway.

Further features and advantages will become apparent upon review of the following drawings and description of the preferred embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates is a schematic view illustrating the paranasal sinuses in relation to the face.

FIG. 2 is a coronal section of the human skull, showing the paranasal sinuses.

FIGS. 3A-3C are of a sagittal view of the lateral nasal wall, illustrating various anatomical features thereof.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of the current invention showing a balloon dilation catheter in the ostial region of a paranasal sinus.

FIG. 5A illustrates one embodiment of a guide catheter according to the invention.

FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a guide catheter.

FIG. 5D is an alternative embodiment of a guide catheter.

FIG. 5E shows the guide catheter of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5D being positioned within the nasal cavity.

FIG. 5F is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a guide catheter.

FIG. 6A illustrates an embodiment of a balloon dilation catheter according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6B is a longitudinal sectional view of a portion of the distal shaft of the embodiment of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is a cross-section of the distal shaft of the embodiment of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A illustrates an alternative embodiment of a balloon dilation catheter according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7B is a longitudinal sectional view of a portion of the distal shaft of the embodiment of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view of the distal shaft of the embodiment of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a stabilization device according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a stabilization device according to another aspect of the invention.

FIG. 10A illustrates a further alternative embodiment of a stabilization device according to another aspect of the invention.

FIG. 10B is a partially exploded top view of the stabilization device of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10C is a partially exploded front view of the stabilization device of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10D is an assembled front view of the stabilization device of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A illustrates an embodiment of a wire movement guide according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the wire movement guide of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11C is an assembly drawing of the wire movement guide of FIG. 11A attached to a guide catheter.

FIG. 11D illustrates a method for placement of a wire guide in a sinus ostium according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates a method and device for confirming the placement of a wire guide in a sinus according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative method and device for confirming the placement of a wire guide, according to another aspect of the invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates methods and devices for accessing a sinus according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 15 shows additional methods and devices for accessing a sinus, according to another aspect of the invention.

FIG. 16A shows additional methods and devices for accessing a sinus according to another aspect of the invention.

FIG. 16B shows a flexible visualization scope as used in connection with FIG. 16A.

FIG. 16C is a cross-sectional view of the flexible visualization scope of FIG. 16B.

FIG. 17A shows additional methods and devices for accessing a sinus according to one of the invention.

FIG. 17B shows an embodiment of a directable endoscope sheath as used in connection with FIG. 17A.

FIG. 17C is a cross-sectional view of the directable endoscope sheath of FIG. 17B.

FIG. 18A illustrates methods and devices for accessing a sinus from an external location according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 18B illustrates additional methods and devices for accessing a sinus ostium from an external location according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 18C illustrates further additional methods and devices for accessing a sinus ostium from an external location according to another aspect of the invention.

FIGS. 19A-19C are cross-sectional images depicting various arrangements of devices used in accessing a sinus ostium in connection with FIG. 18B.

FIG. 20 illustrates methods and devices for treating a sinus ostium in one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 21 shows an embodiment of a trocar in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 22 shows another embodiment of a trocar according to another aspect of the invention.

FIGS. 23A and 23B show additional methods and devices for accessing a sinus ostium from an external location according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 24 shows additional methods and devices for accessing a sinus ostium from an external location according to another aspect of the invention.

FIG. 25A is a coronal view showing anatomical features of the maxillary sinus.

FIG. 25B is a sagittal view showing the anatomical features of FIG. 25A.

FIG. 26A is a coronal view illustrating methods and devices for the treatment of the uncinate process in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 26B is a sagittal view illustrating methods and devices for the treatment of the uncinate process in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 27A is a top view of an embodiment of a shim member in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 27B is an isometric view of the shim member of FIG. 27A.

FIG. 28 is an embodiment of a shim member delivery device in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 29 illustrates a method and device for widening the infundibulum in accordance with another aspect of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 illustrates a frontal anatomical representation (parallel to the coronal plane) showing the sinuses FS, ES, MS located within a patient's head H. Above and behind the eyebrows are the frontal sinuses FS. Between the eyes are the ethmoid sinuses ES. Note that unlike the other sinuses, the ethmoids are typically formed as a “honeycombed” structure consisting of several individual air cells. Located behind the cheeks are the maxillary sinuses MS. The sphenoid sinuses are not shown in FIG. 1, but are located further posterior to the ethmoid sinuses.

FIG. 2 is another frontal view of the sinuses located within the skull bone SK showing additional features. The nasal septum NS divides the nasal cavity into left and right sides. Because the following described structures are generally symmetrical bilaterally, only one of the paired structures is illustrated for sake of convenience. Within the nasal cavity are the middle turbinate MT and the inferior turbinate IT. The middle turbinate MT is connected to the base of the skull SK, while the inferior turbinate IT is connected to the lateral wall of the sinus cavity. The turbinates MT, IT have an underlying bony structure, but are covered with a thick mucosa lining. When this lining swells (rhinitis), it can inhibit breathing through the nose, particularly the inferior turbinate IT. The ethmoid sinuses ES are depicted by a single air cell in FIG. 2. The uncinate process UP is a complex three-dimensional structure, projecting off of the lateral wall like a crescent shaped leaf (better seen in FIGS. 3B and 25B) The curved aspect of the medial bone defining the ethmoid sinuses ES is called the ethmoid bulla EB. The passageway between the ethmoid bulla EB and the uncinate process UP is referred to as the infundibulum I. The drainage path of the maxillary MS, frontal FS, and some of the ethmoid ES air cells runs into the infundibulum I. At the most inferior part of the maxillary sinus is a thin portion of skull bone referred to as the canine fossa CF. Though this is not a true opening, it is a relatively thin bone region, just above the root of the outer aspect of the canine teeth, inside the mouth. The relationship of the sinuses to the orbit O of the eye can also be seen. Note also that all of the sinus cavities have a mucosa lining (ML) disposed over the bone.

FIG. 3A is a side view parallel to the sagittal plane, looking at the right lateral nasal wall. The right nostril N is seen. The sphenoid sinus SS and frontal sinus FS may also be seen in this view. The flap-like structures illustrated in FIG. 3A are the inferior turbinate IT and middle turbinate MT. Other structures of the nasal cavity have been left out for clarification, e.g., the superior turbinate. Located underneath the middle turbinate MT (shown in a “lifted” state in FIG. 3B and removed in FIG. 25B) are the structures of the lateral nasal wall. As seen in FIG. 3A, the ethmoid bulla EB is a rounded projection of the bony wall of the nasal cavity. Behind the wall of the ethmoid bulla EB are one or more of the individual air cells of the ethmoid sinus ES (not shown in FIGS. 3B and 25B). Anterior and inferior of the ethmoid bulla is the uncinate process UP. The uncinate process UP has essentially two edges to it including a free edge FE and a connected edge CE. The free edge FE stands out from the nasal wall, while the connected edge CE connects the structure to the nasal wall. The narrow space between the ethmoid bulla EB and the uncinate process UP is the infundibulum I. Thus, it can be appreciated the complexity of the anatomy involving the maxillary and ethmoid sinus structures MS, ES.

FIG. 3C illustrates the structure beneath or underneath the uncinate process UP. In FIG. 3C, the uncinate process UP has been removed for clarity purposes, leaving only the connected edge CE. Two ostia can be seen including the maxillary sinus ostium MO, and the frontal sinus ostium FO. Drainage from the frontal sinuses FS and maxillary sinuses MS emerges into the infundibulum I through the maxillary sinus ostium MO and the frontal sinus ostium FO. Also, some of the ethmoid air cells ES drain into the infundibulum I, but they are not shown as they are substantially smaller than the frontal and maxillary ostia FO, MO. Drainage problems can arise and/or extend from the ostia of one or more of these sinuses to the infundibulum I or vise versa. Consequently, conventional FESS surgical treatment of sinusitis typically involves widening one or more of the ostia FO, MO, as well as complete removal of the uncinate process UP. Incidentally, removal of the uncinate process UP is usually required even to just allow visualization of these sinus ostia FO, MO for the proper placement of the various surgical cutting instruments. Ethmoids are often treated with the FESS procedure by removing some of the wall of the ethmoid bulla EB and some of the “honeycomb” structure between the individual air cells.

FIG. 4 illustrates a generic therapeutic approach contemplated by one embodiment of the invention. Rather than remove obstructing tissue associated with the sinus ostia FO, MO, a dilation balloon 10 is positioned in the narrowed region to dilate open the structure. Generally, the dilation balloon is carried on a distal end or region of elongate member 12 such as a balloon catheter. The balloon catheter 12 may include a proximal hub 14 that includes an inflation port 16 that is used inflate (and deflate) the dilation balloon 10. For example, the inflation port 16 may connect to a syringe or the like (not shown) using, for instance, a Leur lock connection. The balloon catheter 12 may be disposed within a central lumen of a guide catheter 18. The guide catheter 18 may include a flexible tip portion 18 b as well as a curved portion 20 that is used to navigate the tortuous pathway around the uncinate process UP. The proximal end of the guide catheter 18 may include a hub 22.

Still referring to FIG. 4, a wire guide 24 is located within a central lumen in the balloon catheter 12. The wire guide 24 in FIG. 4 is introduced into the maxillary sinus MS with the aid of the guide catheter 18 and a steering device 26. The wire guide 24 preferably has a curved tip 24 b such as a “J” bend located at or adjacent to a distal tip 24 a of the wire guide 24. The steering device 26 connects to a proximal end of the wire guide 24 to allow rotation of the wire guide 24, and subsequent rotation of the curved tip 24 b to steer and direct the wire guide 24. As can be seen in FIG. 4, there is a relatively sharp bend that the wire guide 24 and balloon catheter 12 must traverse to enter into the maxillary ostial MO region. It is contemplated that a guide catheter 18 may not be utilized at the time that the balloon catheter 12 is positioned in the ostium of interest, but rather the guide catheter 18 would be utilized just for placement of the wire guide 24. In this case, the balloon catheter 12 would be advanced over the wire guide 24. This helps to minimize the size of the “hardware” that is present in the nasal cavity at any one time by allowing use of a smaller diameter guide catheter 18, and minimizes the amount of distortion required on various structures in the nasal cavity, such as the middle turbinate MT.

Still referring to FIG. 4, dilation of the maxillary ostial MO region is accomplished by inflation of the balloon 19 via the inflation port 16 with an inflation apparatus (not shown) which may included, for example, a syringe. It is contemplated that a combination of remodeling the soft tissues as well as fracturing/crushing bony tissues will result in a more open drainage path for the sinus(es) being treated. While FIG. 4 shows a balloon catheter 12 positioned in the maxillary sinus ostium (MO), it is contemplated that the balloon 10 could be positioned in any of the sinus ostia, either naturally occurring ostia, or ostia created intra-procedurally. In particular, treatment of the ethmoid air cells ES may be accomplished by creating one or more small passageways in the walls surrounding the air cells, for example with a needle, followed up by a dilation process using the dilation balloon catheter 12. Moreover, reference to a particular ostium does not necessarily mean an opening or passageway per se. Rather, reference to ostium may include the general region or anatomical area surrounding or adjacent to the ostium of interest and is not limited to a single, discrete structure or location.

Access to the maxillary sinus ostium MO from within the nasal cavity is particularly challenging due in part to the anatomy of the uncinate process UP and infundibulum I. FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate various embodiments of a guide catheter 18 used to facilitate access to the maxillary sinus from the nasal cavity. In FIG. 5A, the guide catheter 18 has a relatively tight curved portion 20 near the tip 18 b, with a preferred inside radius of curvature between about 0.5 mm and about 10 mm, and more preferably between about 1 mm and about 5 mm. Such a radius of curvature will assist in the tip 18 b of the guide catheter “hooking” around the uncinate process UP, to help direct the wire guide 24 and subsequently the balloon catheter 12 into the maxillary sinus ostium MO. The degree of bend of the curved portion of the guide catheter 18 is preferably between 90 degrees and 180 degrees from the longitudinal axis of the hub 22, and more preferably between 120 and 160 degrees.

In one preferred aspect of the invention, the guide catheter 18 includes a shaft portion 18 a and a flexible tip portion 18 b. The tip portion 18 b is preferably of a softer material than the shaft portion 18 a. Tip portion 18 b may formed of a polymer such as PEBAX (Arkema), polyurethane, NYLON (DuPont), HYTREL (DuPont), or silicone. FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of one preferred embodiment of the shaft portion 18 b. As seen in FIG. 5B, a liner 34 of a lubricious material such as PTFE defines a central lumen 36. The liner 34 is surrounded by a wire braid 32. The wire braid 32 is encased in a polymeric material such as PEBAX (Arkema), polyurethane (DuPont), NYLON (DuPont), HYTREL (DuPont), or silicone. The wire braid 32 adds torsional strength to the shaft 18, allowing the curved tip portion 18 b to be controlled and directed by manipulations near the hub 22. The tip portion 18 b may be pre-formed by a suitable process such as heat forming.

Alternatively, as shown in 5C, the guide catheter 18 shaft portion 18 a and/or tip portion 18 b may incorporate a shaping element 38, such as a removable wire. The wire 38 is preferably axially slidable within a lumen 40 formed in the guide catheter 18. For example, different pre-shaped wires 38 may be axially slid within the lumen 40 to impart the desired shape or bend in the guide catheter 18. Alternatively, shaping element 38 could be a ductile non-removable wire that could be shaped and re-shaped to fit to a particular patient's anatomy. This feature advantageously allows the tip curvature or the curvature of any portion of the guide catheter 18 to be customized by the user prior to or during a procedure.

Alternatively, the shaft portion 18 b of the guide catheter 18 can be formed of a metallic tube rather than the braid and jacket construction. This embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 5F. Preferably a liner 34 is inside the metallic tube. Such a construction would allow the shaft portion 18 b to be shaped and reshaped to suit any particular anatomy.

The diameter of the guide catheter 18 is determined by the size of the devices that might pass through it. For example, if the guide catheter 18 is used only for the placement of a wire guide 24 of 0.014 inch diameter, then the guide catheter 18 may have an inner diameter of between 0.016 and 0.025 inches, and a total wall thickness of between 0.004 and 0.020 inches. However if the guide catheter 18 is used to assist in placement of a dilation balloon catheter 12, the inner diameter is preferably between 0.040 and 0.100 inches, with a total wall thickness of between 0.005 and 0.030 inches. The outer diameter of the guide catheter shaft 18 a and tip 18 b is preferably uniform in diameter. The length of the guide catheter 18 is preferably between about 8 and about 25 cm, and more preferably between about 10 and about 20 cm.

FIG. 5D illustrates another embodiment of a guide catheter 18 that is particularly useful for cannulating the maxillary sinus ostium MO. In this embodiment, the curved portion 42 is of a substantially larger radius of curvature compared to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A. Rather than take a “direct” path up to and around the uncinate process UP, the embodiment shown in FIG. 5D makes use of the significant anterior-posterior space in the nasal passage NP. The curvature 42 of the guide catheter 18 may be formed using a shaping element 38 of the type disclosed in FIG. 5C.

FIG. 5E illustrates how the guide catheter 18 shown in FIG. 5D makes a more gradual sweeping turn in the nasal cavity to reach towards the maxillary sinus ostium MO. By possessing a larger radius of curvature, any devices used inside this guide catheter 18 are not forced to negotiate such a tight bend. In a preferred embodiment, the inside radius of curvature is preferably between about 1 cm and about 3 cm, and more preferably between about 1.5 and about 2.5 cm.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C show a preferred embodiment of a dilation balloon catheter 12 for dilation of a sinus ostium, particularly a maxillary sinus ostium MO. The balloon catheter 12 includes a balloon 10, distal shaft portion 12 a, proximal shaft portion 12 b, and a hub 14 with an inflation port 16 for inflation of the balloon 10. The balloon catheter 12 is formed using an inner tube 50 coaxially arranged within an outer tube 52 (described in more detail below). An inflation lumen 56 is formed between the inner tube 50 and the outer tube 52. The balloon catheter 12 terminates at a distal tip 12 c that projects distally from the balloon 10. The balloon catheter 12 may be formed as an “over the wire” design (as shown in FIGS. 6A-6C), but it is contemplated that it could be a “fixed wire” design or a “monorail” design, as is known in the balloon catheter art, particularly the coronary angioplasty art. However, the length of the balloon catheter 12 shown is relatively short in comparison, preferably from about 10 to about 30 cm, and more preferably between about 15 and about 25 cm. The expanded diameter of the balloon 10 would depend on the initial and final desired size of the sinus ostium to be dilated. Preferred diameters would be from about 2 mm to about 10 mm, and most preferably from about 3 to about 7 mm. A preferred “set” of balloon catheters 12 would include a series of catheters having inflated balloon diameters of 2, 4, 6, and 8 mm. Alternatively, a series of catheters 12 having 3, 5, and, 7 mm expanded balloon diameters could be provided. The balloon 10 is preferably from about 5 mm to 40 mm in length (not including the conical portions), and more preferably from about 10 mm to about 20 mm in length.

With particular reference to FIG. 6B, the distal shaft portion 12 a of the balloon catheter 12 is preferably of a coaxial construction, with an inner tube 50 located inside of an outer tube 52. The inner tube defines the wire guide lumen 54 for passage of the wire guide 24 (not shown in FIG. 6B). The annular space formed between the inner and outer tubes 50, 52 defines an inflation lumen 56. The inflation lumen 56 may hold a fluid which is used to inflate the balloon 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 6B, lumens 54, 56 are coaxially arranged. However it is contemplated that a single tube with two side-by-side lumens 54, 46 could be utilized as well.

Because of the anatomic challenge of accessing the maxillary sinus ostium MO, a preferred embodiment of the balloon catheter 12 includes a kink-resisting structure in the shaft, particularly in the distal shaft portion 12 a, as this is the portion of the catheter 12 that may be exposed to a particularly tight bend as it is advanced around the uncinate process UP. The kink resisting structure is preferably a coil 58, 60 or braid (not shown) that is incorporated into the inner tube 50 and/or the outer tube 52. FIG. 6B illustrates coils 58, 60 incorporated in both the inner and outer tubes 50, 52, respectively. If a coil 58 is incorporated in the inner tube 50, it is preferably included in the entire distal portion 12 a, including that portion that traverses the balloon 10. It is contemplated that for other constructions such as “fixed wire” or “rapid exchange” that the kink resisting structure could also be incorporated.

Inner and outer tubes 50, 52 are preferably formed of a suitable material such as polyethylene, PEBAX (Arkema), PTFE, NYLON (DuPont), HYTREL (DuPont), or a combination thereof. Proximal shaft portion 12 b may be more rigid than distal portion 12 b, and may further incorporate a metallic tube (not shown) for either the inner tube 50 or the outer tube 52 of the proximal shaft region.

To assist in positioning of the balloon catheter 12 to a target site, one or more shaft markers 62 may be provided at one or more locations along the shaft of the balloon catheter. Preferably, the markers 62 are positioned in uniform increments (e.g., 1 cm increments) along the full length of the shaft (proximal region 12 b and distal region 12 a). Additionally, one or more markers 64 on the balloon 10 may be provided. Both the shaft markers 62 and the balloon markers 64 are useful in positioning the balloon 10 relative to the wire guide 24 and/or guide catheter 18, together with prior or continuous optical visualization using a visualization tool such as an endoscope. Although not shown, the wire guide 24 could also include markers spaced at predefined increments. Balloon markers 64, shaft markers 62, and/or wire guide markers (not shown) could make use of a color-coding system or some other recognizable pattern to facilitate endoscopic imaging. For instance, a certain color of marker could pertain to a certain distance from a particular location, such as the tip of the wire guide 24 or the center of the dilation balloon 10. Alternatively, one or more radiopaque markers (not shown) could be provided on the shaft underneath the balloon 10 if fluoroscopic imaging is utilized.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C show an alternative embodiment for a sinus ostium dilation balloon catheter 12. In addition to the structures associated with the catheter shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, this embodiment further incorporates structure to facilitate the infusion and delivery of one or more therapeutic and/or diagnostic agents at the site of the dilation balloon 10. In a preferred embodiment, a portion of the balloon catheter 12 that extends proximally and distally with respect to the balloon 10 includes an outer membrane 70 with one or more perforations 72 in the membrane wall. The space between the balloon 10 and the membrane 70 is in fluid communication with an infusion lumen 74 (shown in FIG. 7B) formed in the shaft of the balloon catheter 12. The infusion lumen 74 could be formed by the addition of an infusion tube 76 located on the outside of the outer tube 52. An infusion port 76 located in the proximal hub 14 is in fluid communication with the infusion lumen 74.

The balloon catheter 12 illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7C may be particularly useful for the delivery of an adhesion preventing substance such as MeroGel (Medtronic/Xomed) or Sepragel® (Genzyme Biosurgical/Gyrus ENT) prior to, during, or following the dilation process. This would result in a coating or “sleeve” of the agent being disposed on the contacted tissue region. The fact that the coating or “sleeve” would have an open passageway would provide for immediate ventilation and drainage of the treated sinus.

FIGS. 8, 9, and 10 shows various embodiments of a stabilizing device 80 for use with the device and methods disclosed herein. The stabilizing device 80 is used to assist in holding and stabilizing one or more of the various tools used in the treatment of a sinus ostium. Since at times many devices may be in use, it may be difficult for the physician to manage all such devices. Use of a stabilizing device can free the hands to manage fewer devices at any given time. For example, the stabilizing device 80 may be used to stabilize a guide catheter 18 (as shown in FIG. 8), a balloon catheter 12, and/or an endoscope 82.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 8 utilizes a base member 84 which secures to various portions of the head H, such as the ears and/or top of the nose. Preferably, two ear hooks 86 wrap around the ear in a similar way as eyeglasses. The base member 84 also rests on the nose with a nose bridge 88. A support arm 90 is secured to the base member 84. In one aspect of the invention, the support arm 90, can preferably be manipulated or formed into any desired shape. For example, the support arm 90 may be formed from a flexible material. A securing member 92 such as a clamp is located on the free end of the support arm 90. The securing member 92 may be removable and/or interchangeable via a tightening member. Support arm 90 and securing member 92 are held fast by a tightening member 94 such as a tightening nut. In this figure, a clamp 92 is shown stabilizing a guide catheter 18, which allows the physician to use his or her hands on the endoscope 82 and the wire guide 24, while the position of the guide catheter 18 is maintained. This may be helpful while the physician tries to advance the wire guide 24 into the desired sinus. It is contemplated that more than one securing member 92 and/or more than one support arm 90 could be mounted to the base member 84 to stabilize more than one device.

The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, a stabilizing element 100 stabilizes a device against an interior surface of the nostril. As shown in FIG. 9, the stabilizing element is stabilizing a guide catheter 18. In one preferred embodiment, the stabilizing element 100 is formed as an expandable tubular structure, such as a self-expanding tubular braid. In the expanded state, the tubular structure includes a lumen or passageway through which one or more devices may be placed. The expandable tube 100 is positioned in the nostril next to the device(s) to be stabilized. Friction holds the device(s) in place, while maintaining a passageway for additional devices such as an endoscope (not shown in FIG. 9) to be introduced into the nasal cavity. More than one expandable tube 100 could be used, either next to another, or in a nesting relationship.

With reference now to FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D, a stabilizing device 110 makes use of the patient's mouth M. A mouth piece 112 is connected coupled to a support arm 114, which is connected to a securing member 116 such as a clamp to stabilize the position of a device such as a guide catheter 18. The support arm 114 and clamp 116 can be positioned, e.g. by rotating around pivot points, to bring the clamp 116 to any desired position. FIG. 10B shows a top view of the stabilizing device 110 in a partially exploded view. The mouth piece 112 is configured to engage the upper and/or lower jaw of the patient. The support arm 114 is connected to the mouth piece 112, preferably by a lockable pivot point 118. The clamp 116 is likewise connected to the support arm 114. A series of securing members 120 such as locking screws or nuts locks the clamp 116 position relative to the mouth M.

FIG. 10C is a partially exploded frontal view of the stabilizing device 110 of FIG. 10B. FIG. 10D shows the stabilizing 110 device in the fully assembled state. Again, one or more support arms and/or one or more clamps 116 could be used to stabilize multiple devices such as guide catheters 18, wire guides 24, endoscopes 82, or other instruments used by the physician.

FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C illustrate a wire movement guide 130 that is used to facilitate one-handed movement of both the wire guide 24 and guide catheter 18. The wire movement guide 130 may be formed as a recessed handle or the like. As seen in FIG. 11C, during operation of the guide catheter 18, a steering device 26 is secured to the wire guide 24. The steering device 26 is able to slide axially and rotate in the movement path (as shown by arrows A and B in FIG. 11C). In a preferred embodiment, the recessed handle 130 includes a hub recess 132 that is sized to receive the hub 22 of the guide catheter 18. For example, the hub recess 132 may be sized to frictionally secure the hub 22 within the same. Alternatively, one or more detents, tabs, or the like may be positioned on the hub recess 132 and/or hub 22 to releasably secure wire movement guide to the hub 22 of the guide catheter 18. The wire movement guide 130 also includes a recess 134 for receiving the steering device 26. The recess 134 is dimensioned to permit axial and rotational movement of the steering device 26 as is shown in FIG. 11C. The wire movement guide 130 may also include a wire recess 136 for receiving the wire guide 24. The wire recess 136 may be interposed between the two recesses 132, 134. In addition, a wire recess 136 may be located at a proximal end of the wire movement guide 130 to permit the wire guide 24 to exit the proximal end of the wire movement guide 130. FIG. 11B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the wire movement guide 130.

In an alternative aspect of the invention, the wire movement guide 130 could be formed integrally with the hub 22 or simply formed integrally on the proximal end of the guide catheter 18.

With the use of a wire movement guide 130, the physician can move the guide catheter 18 into a desired position (preferably with the use of endoscopic imaging, as depicted in FIG. 11D), while simultaneously advancing and/or rotating the wire guide 24 with a single hand. For example, the fingers could be manipulating the wire movement guide 130 and therefore the guide catheter 18, while the thumb is able to manipulate the wire guide 24 to a desired position in the nasal cavity or sinus. A portion of the exterior surface of the steering device 26 may be scored, roughened, or otherwise textured to aid the physician in manipulating the steering device 26. The wire movement guide 130 advantageously permits the physician to use his or her other hand to independently manipulate another tool such as, for example, an endoscope 82.

One preferred embodiment for positioning a wire guide 24 into the maxillary sinus ostium MO is depicted in FIG. 11D. In this embodiment, the guide catheter 18, wire movement guide 130, and wire guide 24 are manipulated under endoscopic visualization. Here, the endoscope 82 is a “rigid” endoscope, a standard tool in nasal surgery. The rigid endoscope generally has a forward looking viewing field a which may or may not be offset, a light port 82 a, and a viewing port 82 b through which an image is obtained (indicated with an eyeball symbol). The endoscope 82 is used to help identify the uncinate process UP, and the guide catheter 18 is “hooked” around the uncinate process UP. Additional tools such as a sinus “seeker” (not shown) can be utilized to help pull the uncinate process UP away from the opposite wall and make room for the tip 18 b of the guide catheter 18. Once the guide catheter tip 18 b is positioned, the wire guide 24 is manipulated by tactile feedback until it is felt to have passed into the maxillary sinus ostium MO and into the maxillary sinus MS. FIG. 11D illustrates a simplified obstruction 138 located adjacent the uncinate process UP and maxillary sinus ostium MO. This obstruction 138 may include mucous, inflamed mucosa, scar tissue, abnormal bony structure, or other substances. In this manner, only conventional endoscopic imaging is utilized—without the need for fluoroscopic imaging and/or other specialized “image guidance” technology. This same technique could be utilized for the other sinuses and their ostia as well. In addition, one or more of the stabilization devices 80, 100, 110 previously described could be utilized as would be useful in this or any of the subsequently described methods.

During operation of the device, it may be desirable to have a way to independently confirm that the distal tip 24 a of the wire guide 24 has been positioned in the desired sinus, and not inadvertently passed through some other structure, such as the orbital wall. Since the sinuses are difficult if not impossible to image with the standard rigid endoscopes, endoscopic imaging is not readily amenable for this confirmation. One such confirmation approach is illustrated in FIG. 12. As seen in FIG. 12, after the wire guide 24 has been positioned in what is believed to be the desired location (maxillary sinus MS), a fiber optic catheter 140 is positioned over the wire guide 24 and advanced distally towards the tip of the wire guide 24. The fiber optic catheter 140 may be positioned using a guide catheter 18 of the type illustrated in FIG. 12. The distal tip 140 a of the fiber optic catheter 140 emits light 142 that is input into the fiber optic catheter 140 via a light port 144. In one aspect of the invention, the emitted light 142 is bright enough such that it lights up or illuminates the sinus cavity and can be visualized externally. In this regard, the surrounding environment (e.g., physicians office) may need to have the level of ambient light reduced or turned off completely to aid in the visualization process.

If a structure other than the desired sinus is illuminated, the physician or other operator knows that the wire guide 24 has been improperly positioned and can subsequently be repositioned into the proper location. Once the position of the wire guide 24 has been confirmed to be in the desired position, a balloon catheter 12 can then be confidently placed into the sinus ostium (e.g., MO) and dilated.

FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment for confirming the position of a wire guide 24. In this embodiment, the wire guide 24 is fitted with a detection element 150 at or near the distal tip 24 a. In one aspect, the detection element 150 can be made of a magnetic material. A magnetic detection device (not shown) which could be as simple as a floating magnetic needle such as a compass needle may then be positioned outside the patient's face near the sinus to confirm the position of the wire tip 24 a. For example, in this case, the deflection of the magnetic needle would indicate the presence of the detection element 150 (and thus the distal tip 24 a of the wire guide 24) within the desired sinus cavity.

Alternatively, the detection element 150 could be formed from a dense metallic material that can be detected with a metal detector device (not shown). For example, the metal detector device may include a probe or the like that can be manipulated near to patient's face near the sinus cavity of interest to detect the presence (or absence) of the metallic detection element 150. In yet another aspect, the detection element 150 may emit a signal (e.g., radiofrequency pulse or the like) that can then be detected externally to confirm the presence or absence of the distal tip 24 a of the wire guide 24 within the sinus cavity of interest.

Independent confirmation methods and devices as described above may not be necessary if more versatile optical imaging techniques and devices are utilized in the placement of the various devices such as wire guides 24, guide catheters 18, and/or balloon catheters 12. For instance, FIG. 14 illustrates a method for placing a wire guide 24 across a sinus ostium (e.g., maxillary ostium MO) with the aid of a directable or steerable endoscope 152. Directable endoscopes 152 make use of flexible fiber optic bundles which can be bent or curved to alter the direction of the viewing field 154. A typical construction of a directable endoscope 152 includes multiple control wires (not shown) connected near the distal tip 152 a and to a deflection knob 155. In this method, the directable endoscope 152 is positioned superior to the uncinate process UP and then directed retrograde to allow direct viewing of the viewing field 154 where the guide catheter 18 and wire guide 24 are being manipulated. To further aid in the identification of the maxillary sinus ostium MO, particularly in the case of occlusion 156 associated with sinusitis, the maxillary sinus MO is illuminated with the placement of a small illumination member 158 into the sinus. The illumination member 158 may be formed as an elongate member having a light-emitting distal end 158 a and a proximal end 158 b that is typically connected or otherwise coupled to a light source 160. In one aspect, the illumination member 158 is formed as a fiber optic light based device.

The illumination member 158 can be placed into the sinus cavity of interest (e.g., maxillary sinus MS) by using a piercing member 162 such as, for example, an introducer needle 162 that is introduced through the canine fossa CF region. It should be understood that reference to the canine fossa CF refers to the general region or anatomical area surrounding or adjacent to the canine fossa CF and is not limited to a single, discrete structure or location. The introducer needle 162 may include a hollow lumen or the like to permit the passage of the illumination member 158. The canine fossa CF is a thin portion of the maxillary sinus wall located adjacent the root of the canine teeth. The canine fossa CF has been utilized for other intrasinus procedures. After the formation of a passageway 164 through the canine fossa CF, the illumination member 158 is advanced distally such that the distal tip 158 a of the illumination member 158 is disposed inside the sinus cavity. The emitted light 162 in the maxillary sinus MS (or other sinus cavity) will be visible through the blockage 156 of the ostium MO using the directable endoscope 152. This aids the physician or other user to direct the wire guide 24.

FIG. 15 illustrates a similar method to FIG. 14, the difference being the use of a rigid retrograde endoscope 170. A rigid retrograde endoscope 170 is similar to a normal rigid endoscope, but the direction of viewing field 172 is in a retrograde direction. The rigid retrograde endoscope 170 has a substantially rigid shaft portion 173 and a retrograde viewing window 174 located at or near the distal tip 170 a. Retrograde visualization is accomplished through the use of one or more mirrors and/or lenses located at or adjacent to the viewing window 174 to deflect the viewing field 172. Since the viewing field 172 is retrograde, this endoscope 170 can assist in accessing the sinus ostium in a similar manner as described with respect to the method shown in FIG. 14. One difficulty with a rigid retrograde endoscope 170 is that it can be awkward to initially position it, since it cannot be used to see straight ahead. However, this difficulty is overcome by utilizing a normal rigid endoscope (not shown) alongside the retrograde rigid endoscope 170 to get it positioned initially in the nasal cavity. Again, an illumination member 158 in the sinus, placed via the canine fossa CF, can be further utilized to aid in accessing the sinus ostium.

Still other alternative methods for accessing the sinus ostium are illustrated in FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C. In these embodiments, a flexible visualization scope 180 is utilized. The flexible visualization scope 180 includes an elongate flexible body 182 that contains a flexible fiber optic bundle 183 (as shown in FIG. 16C) for viewing around bends. Although not shown in the figures, the fiber optic bundle 183 includes both “imaging” fibers and “illumination” fibers for lighting up the viewing field 184. The flexible visualization scope 180 is not directable like the endoscope 152 of FIG. 14. Rather, the flexible visualization scope 180 includes a lumen or passageway 185 for the wire guide 24 and follows the wire guide 24 around bends as illustrated in FIG. 16A. Consequently, in this method, particularly for a maxillary sinus ostium MO, a guide catheter 18 having a curved distal portion 20 is positioned near or around the uncinate process UP. A conventional rigid endoscope (not shown) may be used to assist in this positioning. Next, the wire guide 24 is positioned near the tip 18 b of the guide catheter 18. Then the flexible visualization scope 180 is advanced over the wire guide 24, curving back in a retrograde fashion, allowing the viewing field 184 to be directed towards the sinus ostium (MO in this case). A blockage is shown 186 positioned within the maxillary ostium MO. The wire guide 24 and guide catheter 18 may then be manipulated under visual observation to access the ostium MO. Again, as has been mentioned previously, additional tools or the use of a “seeker” can be used in addition to the visualization scope 180, guide catheter 18 and wire guide 24. In addition, the sinus cavity of interest may be illuminated using the canine fossa CF access method described above with respect to FIGS. 14 and 15.

Another alternative device and method for accessing a sinus ostium is illustrated in FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C. In this embodiment, a directable endoscope sheath 190 is provided that has a deflectable tip 190 a. The directable endoscope sheath 190 is similar to the directable endoscope 152 of FIG. 14, but further includes a working channel or lumen 192, as best seen in FIG. 16C, together with the deflection wires 194 and optical fibers 196 (which contain both imaging and illuminating fibers). In use, the directable endoscope sheath 190 can be introduced into the nasal cavity relatively straight, so as to see straight ahead. When the directable endoscope sheath 192 is near the uncinate process UP, the tip 190 a is deflected retrograde using, for instance, a deflection knob 197, so that the viewing field 198 is directed towards the sinus ostium MO which contains an obstruction 200. At this point, a wire guide 24 is positioned in the working lumen 192 and the ostium MO is accessed under visual observation.

In one preferred embodiment, the directable endoscope sheath 190 has a large enough working channel 192 that a balloon catheter 12 can be advanced into the sheath 190 over the wire 24. In this manner, a separate guide catheter 18 is not necessary. In yet another preferred embodiment, the working channel 192 is only large enough to accommodate the wire guide 24. This allows for the sheath 190 to have a reasonably small outer diameter. Once the wire 24 is positioned in the sinus, the directable endoscope sheath 190 is removed from the wire 24, leaving the wire 24 in position. Thereafter, a balloon catheter 12 can be installed over the wire 24 and into the sinus ostium MO for dilation.

FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate a device 210 and method for accessing and dilating a sinus ostium (e.g., maxillary sinus ostium MO) via a direct sinus puncture technique, in contrast to a transnasal technique. This approach can generally be done with the frontal sinus FS and the maxillary sinus MS. While a description of the device 210 and process is provided for the maxillary sinus MS, it should be understood that similar access devices 210 can be used with the frontal sinus FS.

In FIG. 18A, a trocar 212 is shown being advanced into the maxillary sinus MS via the canine fossa CF approach. The trocar 212 includes a hollow cannula 214 and a needle 216 contained within the lumen 218 of the cannula 214. The needle 216 has a sharp tip 220 for penetrating the thin bone surrounding the sinus. The needle 216 may be a solid piece or having one or more lumens therein. Once the cannula 214 is inside the sinus, the needle 216 is then removed and the cannula 214 serves as a guide catheter for subsequent devices. As an alternative to a needle-cannula type of trocar 212, a hollow sharpened needle could be used as well.

Referring now to FIG. 18B, once the cannula 214 is in place, a wire guide 24 and an endoscope 222 can be introduced into the sinus. The cannula 214 is pointed towards the ostium MO, which points the viewing field 224 to the ostium MO. Manipulation of the wire guide 24 through use of a steering device 26 then delivers the wire guide 24 across the ostium MO which may contain a blockage 200 as is shown in FIG. 18B. Optionally, an illumination member 226 can be placed in the nasal cavity to “back-light” the ostium MO and enhance the ability for the ostium MO to be seen, further aiding the ability to direct the wire guide 24 across the ostium MO. Alternatively, a bright light placed at the nostril may be adequate to perform this back-lighting.

With the above-described “direct sinus puncture” technique such as through the canine fossa CF, various stabilization devices can be utilized to stabilize one or more of the various tools used for accessing and/or treating the ostium. For example, as shown in FIG. 18C, a stabilization device 110 is shown stabilizing the cannula 214. The stabilization device 110 could also be used to stabilize the wire guide 24, the endoscope 222, trocar 212, and/or the balloon catheter 12. Similarly, any of the previously described stabilization devices can be utilized with the direct sinus puncture techniques.

FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C illustrate various arrangements and types of endoscopes 222 a, 222 b, 222 c that can be used with this canine fossa CF approach. In FIG. 19A, the endoscope 222 a is a flexible visualization scope having a bundle of optical fibers 228. The endoscope 222 a further includes a lumen 230 through which the wire guide 24 is fed. FIG. 19B shows a rigid endoscope 222 b used next to the wire guide 24, inside cannula 214. FIG. 19C illustrates a similar arrangement to that shown in FIG. 19B, but with an additional dual lumen catheter 232 to better manage the positioning of the wire guide 24 relative to the rigid endoscope 222 c. In all these approaches, the diameter of the endoscope 222 a, 222 b, 222 c used is preferably small, about 0.5 mm to about 4 mm, and most preferably about 1 mm to about 2 mm. This allows for the use of a relatively small trocar and relatively small puncture size. Preferred trocar diameters are from 0.7 mm to 4.2 mm (depending on the size of the devices used with them), and more preferably from about 1 mm to 2.5 mm, and most preferably 1.2 to 2.0 mm.

FIG. 20 illustrates the introduction of a balloon dilation catheter 12 into the cannula 214 and into the sinus ostium MO, dilating the ostium MO, and deforming and/or remodeling the uncinate process UP. To aid in the positioning of the balloon 10, an optional endoscope 240 is placed in the nasal cavity may be used to visualize the catheter tip 12 c relative to the uncinate process UP.

Alternatively, the position of the balloon 10 may not require “real time” visualization with an endoscope, if various markers on the wire guide and/or balloon catheter shaft as described earlier are utilized. For example, if the wire guide 24 includes markers, the marker that is seen at or near the ostium can be noted. Markers on the proximal portion of the wire guide 24 can then be used to determine the “depth” that the wire guide 24 has been advanced to reach the ostium. The balloon catheter 12 can then be advanced a distance over the wire guide 24 a predetermined distance on the wire guide 24, such that the balloon 10 is positioned at a desired position relative to the noted marker on the wire guide 24. Markers 62 on the shaft of the balloon catheter 12 can aid in this positioning. With this use of markers 62, the balloon 10 can be confidently positioned in the desired region of the sinus ostium. The desired length of the balloon can be selected by viewing the computed tomography (CT) scans of the patient, which are part of a standard diagnostic workup of the patient prior to any intervention.

Though not shown, once the maxillary ostium MO has been treated, the ethmoids and/or frontal sinuses ES, FS can also be treated by this same canine fossa access. The wire guide 24 can be manipulated into the ethmoids and/or frontals, with subsequent dilation of the ostia of these sinuses. Similar endoscopic visualization techniques as described above can also be utilized to assist in placement of the various devices such as the wire guide 24 to these locations. In the case of the ethmoids, it may be desirable to use a sharpened wire in lieu of a wire guide 24 to puncture into the wall of the ethmoid sinus air cells, followed by balloon dilation of the puncture.

As mentioned above, the frontal sinus FS can also be accessed directly from outside the skull, through the wall of the frontal sinus FS to facilitate treatment of the frontal sinus ostium FO. Rather than a trocar, the frontal sinus FS can be directly accessed through a mini trephination through the skin and the sinus wall, as is known in the art. With a mini-trephination, the access is performed with a drill tool. Once accessed, the frontal sinus ostium FO may be directly accessed with a wire guide 24. A preferred location for accessing the frontal sinus FS is through the floor of the frontal sinus FS. Since the frontal sinus FS is relatively small, and there is only one outflow tract and its position can be approximated relative to the nose, visualization may not be required to pass the wire guide 24 through the frontal sinus ostium FO and into the nasal cavity. Standard endoscopic visualization could be performed in the nasal cavity via the nostrils to observe the wire guide 24 after it passes into the nasal cavity. Subsequent to passing the wire guide 24 into the frontal ostium FO, a balloon dilation catheter 12 can be positioned in the ostium FO to dilate it.

Although the maxillary sinus MS is easily accessible via the canine fossa CF, it is important to control the depth of the initial puncture so as to not inadvertently advance the needle 216 too far and potentially into the orbit O or elsewhere. FIG. 21 illustrates a trocar 212 with a stop 250 secured to a portion of the trocar 212. The stop 250 prevents the needle 216 from advancing too far into the sinus cavity. In one aspect, the stop 250 is clamped on to either the needle 216 or the cannula 214 at a predetermined position. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the stop 250 is adjustable and/or removable with respect to the fixation point (e.g., needle 216 or cannula 214). For example, the stop 250 may include one or more tightening members 252 such as screws or the like that can be selectively tightened or loosen the stop 250. Once the trocar 212 is inserted up to the stop 250, the stop 250 is removed. The cannula 214 can then be advanced with little force, as the puncture site has already been made.

FIG. 22 shows an alternative trocar 212 arrangement for improving the control of the puncturing into the canine fossa CF. Here, the needle 216 includes needle threads 216 a located on an exterior surface thereof. The threads 216 a of the needle 216 engage with a threaded hub 254 in a threaded interface. The threaded hub 254 may be in the form of a “clamshell” of two treaded pieces or halves 254 a, 254 b that surround and engage the needle threads 216 a. The position of the threaded hub 254 may be held fast by attachment to a stabilizing device such as the stabilizing devices 80, 110 shown in FIGS. 8 and 10. The needle 216 is then advanced into the canine fossa CF by controlled rotation of the needle 216. Once the needle 216 has penetrated or traveled the desired amount, the threaded hub 254 is removed, and the cannula 214 is advanced to a desired position within the sinus. Alternatively, the threaded hub 254 could be attached to a stabilizing device 80, 110 in a manner that allows rotation of the threaded hub 254 about the needle threads 216 a, by utilizing a bearing surface (not shown) with the stabilizing device 80, 110. The threaded hub 254 when rotated would controllably advance the needle 216 into the sinus. In this manner, the needle 216 is not rotated.

Sometimes the desired direction and positioning for placing the trocar 212 in the canine fossa CF does not provide good alignment with the location of the sinus ostium. In this case, a trocar 212 having a flexible tip 260 can be used, as shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B. In FIG. 23A, the cannula 214 has a somewhat flexible curved tip 260, that, in FIG. 23A, is maintained straight by the presence of the needle 216. This trocar 212 is advanced into the sinus. Upon removal of the needle 216, the flexible tip 260 takes on its curved shape, more oriented to the ostium MO. Thereafter a wire guide 24 is advanced across the ostium MO, preferably under the visual guidance of a flexible visualization scope 262 as shown in FIG. 23B. The visualization scope 262 is preferably dimensioned such that it can be slidably passed through the cannula 214. The flexible visualization scope 262 includes a lumen or passageway 264 for the wire guide 24. The flexible visualization scope 262 is able to be oriented to place the visualization field 266 within the vicinity of the ostium MO. Manipulation of the curved tip 260 of the cannula 214 can assist in directing the wire guide 24 to and through the ostium MO. Also as shown, the nasal cavity can be back-lit using an illumination member 268 to aid in seeing the ostium. Also, other tools and methods may be used as desired, such as, for example, the trocar 212 modifications illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22.

FIG. 24 illustrates another device and method for accessing the maxillary sinus ostium MO via the canine fossa CF. In this embodiment, two small punctures 270, 272 are made, side-by-side in the canine fossa CF region. A puncture device 210 like that disclosed in FIG. 18A may be used. For example, a rigid endoscope 274 is positioned in the cannula 214 of the first puncture site 270. A wire guide 24 is then positioned in the cannula 214 of the second puncture site 272. One or more of the cannulas 212 may have a curved tip 260 to better access the maxillary sinus ostium MO. The wire guide 24 may then be positioned across the ostium MO under the visualization of the rigid endoscope 274. A balloon dilation catheter (not shown in FIG. 24) may then be advanced over the wire 24 to dilate the sinus. The ostial region may be back-lit using an illumination member 276.

FIGS. 25A and 25B illustrate a common anatomical characteristic present in patients with sinusitis associated with the maxillaries, ethmoids, and frontals. The uncinate process UP is shown in close association with the opposite wall, typically on the ethmoid bulla EB. This condition creates a narrow slit-like space called the infundibulum I. The maxillary sinus ostium MO is actually located below (i.e., inferior to) the infundibulum I. FIG. 25B more clearly shows the “topography” of the structures of the uncinate process UP and ethmoid bulla EB. It is believed that a narrowed infundibulum I may be part of the condition leading to the patient's sinusitis, as well as one or more narrowed ostia. In some patents, a narrowed infundibulum I may be the sole anatomical cause leading to sinusitis.

The previously described approaches to dilating the maxillary sinus ostium MO may result in a widening of the infundibulum I by deforming or remodeling the uncinate process UP, as well as the widening of the ostium MO itself. However, in some patients, the uncinate process UP may not stay permanently deformed following removal of the dilation catheter 12.

An alternative approach to widening the infundibulum I is illustrated in FIGS. 26A and 26B. One or more shim members 280 are placed in the gap of the infundibulum I to forcibly spread it away from the ethmoid bulla EB and improve drainage for the maxillary, frontal and portions of the ethmoid sinus. In one preferred aspect of the invention, the one or more shim members 280 are left in place after implantation. The shim members 280 may remain in place for a temporary period of time or permanently. The sinus ostium may still be dilated with the use of a balloon dilation catheter 12. FIG. 26B illustrates three such shim members 280 secured in the infundibulum I. As seen in FIG. 26B, the gap is widened to expose the maxillary sinus ostium MO.

FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate one preferred embodiment of a shim member 280. The shim members 280 may be dimensioned such that one or more sides are longer than the remaining sides. For example, the shim member 280 may be longer than it is wide, with a length dimension preferably about 1 mm to about 6 mm in length, and more preferably about 2 mm to about 4 mm in length. The shim members 280 may include one or more gripping members 282 on all or a portion of an exterior surface. The gripping members 282 may be formed as a serrated surface or even a plurality of teeth or similar projections. As seen in FIGS. 27A and 27B, the gripping members 282 are located on opposing sides of the shim member 280 to allow for the shim member 280 to be rotated into position and held in place.

The shim member 280 may include one or more engagement holes 284 that are used for the delivery of the shim member 280. For example, the engagement holes 284 may be dimensioned to fit on the distal end of a tool as shown in FIG. 28. The shim member 280 may be a permanent implant, or more preferably a degradable bioabsorbable implant. Suitable materials for a degradable shim member 280 include poly-lactic acid, poly-glycolic acid, poly-L-lactic acid or other materials such as those used in degradable sutures. It is believed that after the shim members 280 are implanted in the infundibulum I, the uncinate process UP will remodel over time to maintain a widened infundibulum.

FIG. 28 illustrates a delivery tool 290 for use in the delivery of the shim member(s) 280. The delivery tool 290 includes an elongate torque driver 292 constructed of a multi-layer, multi-filar drive shaft similar to that used in speedometer cables. The torque driver 292 is dimensioned to be positionable within a guide catheter 18 or the like. The shim member 280 is connected to the torque driver 292 at its distal end 292 a. The proximal end 292 b of the torque driver 292 is coupled to a handle 294 or the like that is used to rotate the torque driver 292 (and attached shim member 280) in the direction of the arrows shown in FIG. 28.

The guide catheter 18 is used to place the shim member 280 over the uncinate process UP and in the narrowed infundibulum I, initially in a narrow or “sideways” orientation. The torque driver 292 is then rotated by rotation of the handle 294. Rotation of about 60 to about 90 degrees will widen the infundibulum I as shown in FIG. 26B. The connection between the torque driver 292 and the shim member 280 is disconnected. This could be done, for example, by reversing the rotational direction of the torque handle 294 and causing a weakened portion of the connection to break. Alternatively, the torque driver 292 may be frictionally engaged with the holes 284 of the shim member 280. Retraction of the torque driver 292 in the proximal direction may disengage the torque driver 292 from the shim member 280. Once place, the one or more shim members 280 will maintain the infundibulum I in a widened condition, while minimizing the interruption of the mucosa by the presence of the shim member(s) 280.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 29, the infundibulum I can be widened by delivery of an expandable stent 300, oriented more or less in the infundibulum I. This stent 300 can be similar to that used in coronary stenting procedures, and can be either “self-expanding” or “balloon expandable.” The geometry of the stent 300 may be tubular as is shown in FIG. 29. The stent 300 can be placed in the infundibulum I using a balloon catheter 12 and a wire guide 24. As one example, the stent 300 may be positioned via a transnasal approach wherein the wire guide 24 is directed along the infundibulum I up towards the frontal sinus ostium FO (as shown in FIG. 3C) and then deployed between the uncinate process UP and the ethmoid bulla EB.

While embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The invention, therefore, should not be limited, except to the following claims, and their equivalents. 

1. A method for treating a natural drainage passageway in a subject comprising: forming a cannulated artificial passageway into a subject's sinus cavity through the canine fossa region with a piercing member, the piercing member containing a hollow cannula thereon, the cannula comprising an elongate flexible member having a lumen passing therethrough; removing the piercing member so as to leave the cannula in place; advancing a balloon dilation catheter within the lumen of the cannula so as to place the dilation balloon at least partially across the natural drainage passage in the sinus cavity; and dilating the dilation balloon so as to at least partially expand the natural drainage passageway.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising advancing an endoscope through the cannula.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising stabilizing the cannula within the artificial passageway with a stabilization device.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the natural drainage passageway comprises a natural sinus ostium.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the natural sinus ostium comprises the maxillary sinus ostium.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the cannula comprises a guide catheter.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the distal end of the guide catheter comprises a curved tip.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the curved tip of the guide catheter is formed after the guide catheter is introduced into the artificial passageway.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the curved tip is flexibly biased in a curved configuration.
 10. The method of claim 6, further comprising orienting the guide catheter so as to direct a distal end of the guide catheter toward a natural sinus ostium prior to advancing the balloon dilation catheter within the lumen of the guide catheter.
 11. The method of claim 7, further comprising orienting the guide catheter into the sinus cavity such that the curved portion is directed toward a natural sinus ostium prior to advancing the balloon dilation catheter within the lumen of the guide catheter.
 12. The method of claim 6, further comprising advancing another working device within the lumen of the guide catheter. 